NEIGHBOURHOOD Watch has been a fixture in Australia since the 1980s where it began as a localised police initiative to combat property crime.
Nationally, the movement is represented by Neighbourhood Watch Australasia (NHWA), which operates as a large volunteer-led crime prevention network.
State organisations manage their own local groups and initiatives, ranging from traditional property security programs to modern local social media networks and safety grants.
Former Australasia board member Clare McGrath, who received an OAM for her services to the organisation, firmly believes Neighbourhood Watch brings communities closer.
“[N]eighbours start looking out for each other and know when things don’t look right, and this expands to the wider community,” Ms McGrath said.
Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce is embracing the initiative and relaunching it in the local region, with goals of educating residents on how to protect themselves and to ensure that Camden Haven maintains its reputation as a safe place to live.
“Neighbourhood Watch was originally set up here in the 1980s and I think sits well as an adjunct to crime prevention while working in tandem with local law enforcement, which is now more important than ever,” said Chamber executive committee member Jenny Peters.
“Currently, with the large variety and number of scanning devices available for home installation, this will be an additional safeguard for homeowners and hopefully act as a deterrent.”
Local resident and business owner Troy Zrebiec believes that grassroot organisations are key.
“I think Neighbourhood Watch would be a great benefit to Camden Haven,” said MrZrebiec.
“We are fortunate to live in a close-knit community, and this initiative would help strengthen those connections even further.
“It’s not just about keeping an eye out for suspicious activity; it’s about neighbours knowing and supporting one another, creating a stronger sense of community and helping people feel safe and connected.
“The more we work together, the better our community becomes,” said Mr Zrebiec.
Neighbourhood Watch encourages people to “say something if they see something”. Online anonymous reports can be made via Crimestoppers.
The Chamber has set up a Facebook page and will be promoting it at the Ageing Well Expo at Laurieton United Services Club on 18 June.
By Rachael THORPE
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